Boxing News That Pulls No Punches

Servania Returning to 122lbs, Targets Magdaleno & Iwasa

Last month we saw Genesis Servania in a featherweight title fight against champion Oscar Valdez. Servania put up a worthy effort in a unanimous decision loss that saw him drop Valdez in the 4th round of an exciting contest. The term “won more than he lost” definitely applies to Servania as he won over fans, gained needed and deserved exposure, while earning the respect from peers as an elite fighter who can hang with the best of them.

His last goal of becoming a champion still eludes him but maybe not for long. Servania’s performence showcased he’s a fan friendly fighter who loves to brawl. That being said, his chances of landing another title shot, especially a televised one, are better than if he was a defensive technician.

A member of his team told No Sparring what Servania has echoed since the last bell: “he wants a rematch [with Valdez].” He goes on to say that any oppnent(s) “who will stand and fight with him” are welcomed but he’s now targeting the super bantamweight champions.

“Iwasa or Magdaleno” said his agent. Servania was previously the WBO intercontinental super bantamweight champion, though his last two fights took place at the featherweight limit of 126lbs. His move up in weight was based purely on opportunity rather than any discomfort making the super bantamweight level – his most comfortable weight. After having gone 12 with the featherweight champ, he’d bring upgraded ring intelligence when returning to the division he use to frequent.

Jessie Magdaleno is one of the preferred opponents by Servania and his team because he would conceivably come forward and slug it out for 12 full rounds compared to the boxing style Valdez showcased in the second half of their fight. Having just worked with Top Rank, a fight down the line with Magdaleno could be possible though the champion is currently scheduled to defend his crown in Fresno next month against Cesar Juarez.

A fight with IBF super bantamweight boss Ryosuke Iwasa would also be interesting and hypothetically doable as Servania has been based out of Japan for the last two years. Iwasa fought last month and could be available for a New Years Eve showdown; a popular time in Japan for championship boxing. As it so happens, Servania will be ready to go again in “December or January.”

While Magdaleno and Iwasa are great options for different reasons, “it’s not about who [Servania fights]…” it’s about “the chance to fight for a world title again…” because “he’ll fight anyone.”